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Hyperhidrosis as the presenting symptom in post-traumatic syringomyelia
1Department of Neurosurgery, State University of New York at Buffalo School of Medicine and Biophysical Sciences.
Paraplegia
|June 1, 1994
Summary
Post-traumatic syringomyelia, a condition following spinal cord injury, can manifest as hyperhidrosis (profuse sweating). This symptom, influenced by posture, was observed in two patients with cervical spine fractures, highlighting a unique presentation of this neurological disorder.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Neurosurgery
- Spinal Cord Injury Research
Background:
- Post-traumatic syringomyelia is a known complication of spinal cord injury, typically presenting months to years after the initial trauma.
- Common symptoms include pain, motor weakness, sensory alterations, and spasticity.
- Autonomic dysreflexia can also cause hyperhidrosis, often triggered by external stimuli.
Observation:
- This study highlights two cases of cervical spine fractures.
- The primary presenting symptom in both patients was hyperhidrosis (profuse sweating).
- The hyperhidrosis was notably affected by changes in posture.
Findings:
- The findings suggest that posture-dependent hyperhidrosis can be an unusual presenting symptom of post-traumatic syringomyelia.
- This challenges the typical symptom profile, emphasizing the need for broader diagnostic considerations.
- The pathophysiology linking cervical injury, syringomyelia, and autonomic dysfunction is explored.
Implications:
- Recognizing hyperhidrosis as a potential indicator of post-traumatic syringomyelia is crucial for timely diagnosis and management.
- This expands the clinical spectrum of syringomyelia symptoms, particularly in cases of cervical trauma.
- Further research into the autonomic manifestations of syringomyelia is warranted.